NORTHWEST TERRITORIES TOURISM | 2012 HUNTING GUIDE ...

Black BearUrsus americanusBlack Bears have had little hunting pressure in most of the NWT.The immense wilderness with countless lakes and streams makesthe NWT an ideal habitat for big, old and bold bears. Spring huntscan take advantage of the long days and fall hunts can witness theAurora. Cruising the lake shores, spot and stalk, and baited standhunting is available.SEASONAugust 15 – June 30TERRAINThough occasionally found onthe tundra, black bears preferthe boreal forest, with accessto open areas that providethem with berries, shrubsand grasses.BAG LIMIT1 Adult male notaccompanied by cub(s)CHARACTERISTICSChunky, with broad headsand stubby necks, blackbears found in the NWTcommonly have dark coatswith tan muzzles, andfrequently a white V on theirchests. Their weight variesseasonally: thin in the springpost-hibernation, they arelargest in the fall, when theycan gain as much as 14kg(31lbs) a week.CHALLENGESWith easy access to tree and/or water escape routes, blackbears have a reputation forbeing less confrontationalthan grizzlies, but are stillformidable if angered orcornered. Though noted forpoor eyesight, they haveexcellent hearing and senseof smell, and are surprisinglyfast considering their lessthan aerodynamic shape.6Follow us for UPDATES at twitter.com/spectacularnwt